The mid-to-late ’80s had a style all their own, with bright colors, quirky gadgets, and plenty of things that seemed like they would stick around forever. Many of those household items eventually disappeared from everyday life, but some have become sought after by collectors.
That old cassette player, toy, camera, or kitchen container sitting in a closet might be worth more than you expect. Some retro pieces can bring in good money, especially when they are rare, complete, unopened, or still in great condition.
Here are 13 items worth checking before you clear out the attic, basement, or storage closet.
Rubik’s Cube
Few toys bring back the ’80s quite like the colorful Rubik’s Cube. Original versions, unusual editions, and cubes in excellent condition can attract collectors and sometimes sell for much more than their original price.
Beanie Babies
Beanie Babies became a huge collecting craze in the 1990s, so they came a little later than many of the other items on this list. Rare versions, early releases, and toys with their original tags in excellent condition can still attract collectors and may be worth checking.
Atari 2600
If you still have an Atari 2600 tucked away somewhere, it may be worth pulling it out and seeing what you have. Complete sets, including the console, controllers, games, packaging, and manuals, tend to be more appealing to retro gaming collectors.
Polaroid Cameras
Instant cameras were a familiar sight at parties and family gatherings during the ’80s, turning moments into physical photos within minutes. Older Polaroid models, especially certain square-format cameras, can attract buyers who love vintage photography and retro gear.
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Tupperware
Tupperware became a kitchen staple during the ’70s and ’80s, with colorful containers filling cabinets across the country. Rare shapes, unusual colors, complete sets, and older pieces in excellent condition can be worth more than ordinary used containers.
Sony Walkman
The Sony Walkman changed the way people listened to music by making it possible to take cassette tapes almost anywhere. Early models, limited versions, and Walkmans that still work and include original accessories can be especially appealing to collectors.
Fisher Price Toys
Fisher-Price toys from the ’80s can bring back plenty of childhood memories, especially pieces from popular Little People and Play Family sets. Toys in clean condition with their original figures, accessories, and packaging tend to be more desirable to collectors.
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Crystal Pepsi
Crystal Pepsi actually arrived in the early 1990s rather than the ’80s, but its short run has made unopened bottles and related promotional items interesting to some collectors. If you happen to have an unopened bottle stored away, check its condition and packaging before tossing it out.
VCRs
VCRs once sat beneath televisions in countless living rooms, but they have become much less common as newer ways of watching movies took over. Certain older models from brands such as JVC and Sony can attract collectors, especially when they still work and come with the original box or manual.
The rarest VCR models have sold for hundreds of dollars when they are original and well preserved.
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Cabbage Patch Kids
Cabbage Patch Kids were among the most talked-about toys of the ’80s, with shoppers lining up to get their hands on them during the holiday season. Certain early dolls, unusual versions, and examples with original clothing and paperwork can be worth checking before you give them away.
Game Boy
Nintendo released the original Game Boy in 1989, and the handheld quickly became a favorite among young gamers. Original units, along with their boxes, accessories, and games, can be worth a good amount today, especially if they have been kept in good condition.
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Tamagotchis
Tamagotchis became a major craze in the 1990s rather than the ’80s, but they are still a fun example of the retro gadgets that can turn up in old drawers and storage boxes. Early models, limited editions, and unopened examples can attract collectors looking for pieces from the virtual pet craze.
Original Tamagotchis can be worth checking before you clear out an old collection of toys and electronics.
